RRI.CO.ID, Nagoya - The Indonesian contingent showcased the diversity of the country’s cultural heritage during the opening ceremony of the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games at Paloma Mizuho Stadium in Nagoya, Japan, Saturday, September 19, 2026, through the appearance of two athletes who carried the Indonesian national flag.
Women’s basketball player, Dewa Ayu Made Sriartha Kusuma Dewi was chosen as Indonesia’s flag bearer during the parade. She wore traditional Balinese attire from her home region as she entered the stadium.
Meanwhile, karateka Daniel Hutapea was among the front row of the Indonesian contingent, wearing traditional Batak attire and an ulos cloth draped over his shoulder.
Being entrusted with the role was an honor for Ayu and Daniel, while their appearance also marked the symbolic beginning of Indonesia’s campaign at Asia’s premier multi-sport event.
The two athletes drew attention from spectators as the Indonesian contingent entered the arena during the vibrant opening ceremony.
Ayu said she felt proud and emotional when she first learned that she had been chosen to carry the Indonesian flag at the opening ceremony of the 2026 Asian Games.
“Honestly, I felt very proud and emotional when I first learned that I had been chosen as the flag bearer for the Indonesian team at the 2026 Asian Games. For me, it is not only about carrying the flag, but also about carrying the name and spirit of the entire Indonesian contingent,” Ayu said.
At the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, Indonesia is sending 430 athletes along with 145 officials and coaches. The Indonesian contingent will compete in 35 sports, with a target of winning four gold medals. Each Indonesian athlete who wins a gold medal will receive a bonus of IDR 3 billion.
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